If not the least accessible and popular Van album, it is definitely one of them. Having two songs that both go over fifteen minutes, being made in a week, and carrying a very experimental jazz vibe it sounds unique in Van’s catalog.
“Summertime in England” builds and builds up until it’s majestic ending blows the house down, “When the Heart is Open” is the most ambient song of his career and is the best song to fall asleep to on a rainy day. The other four songs are equally great. The album only feels more organic and beautiful put into the context of the time. It was a celebration of spirit and freedom [released in 1980]. –Allistair
